Ametek Jofra ASC-400 User manual

Reference manual
Advanced Signal Calibrator
Jofra ASC-400

Reference Manual
Advanced Signal Calibrator
JOFRA ASC-400
 Copyright 2014 AMETEK Denmark A/S

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About this manual….
 The structure of the manual
This reference manual is aimed at users who are familiar with AMETEK signal calibrators,
as well as those who are not. The manual is divided into 12 chapters, which describe how
to set up, operate, service and maintain the signal calibrator. The technical specifications
are described and accessories may be ordered from the list of accessories.
 Safety symbols
This manual contains a number of safety symbols designed to draw your attention to
instructions, which must be followed when using the instrument, as well as any risks
involved.
Warning
Conditions and actions that may compromise the safe use of the instrument and
result in considerable personal or material dama
g
e.
Caution…
Conditions and actions that may compromise the safe use of the instrument and
result in sli
g
ht personal or material dama
g
e.
Note…
Special situations, which demand the user’s attention.

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List of contents
1.0 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 5
1.1Warranty ..................................................................................................................................................... 6
1.2Receiving the Advanced Signal Calibrator ................................................................................................. 6
1.3Dimensioning drawing ................................................................................................................................ 7
2.0 Safety instructions .......................................................................................................................... 8
3.0 Calibrator Interface ....................................................................................................................... 10
3.1Input/Output Connections ......................................................................................................................... 10
3.2Keypad - Functions ................................................................................................................................... 11
3.3Main display - Functions ........................................................................................................................... 11
3.4Upper display (Read-back display) - Functions ........................................................................................ 12
3.5Lower display (Primary display) – Functions ............................................................................................ 12
4.0 Operating the calibrator ................................................................................................................ 13
4.1Basic operation (Setup) ............................................................................................................................ 13
4.2The principle of navigating through a Setup ............................................................................................. 14
4.3System Settings ........................................................................................................................................ 15
4.3.1Power Saver (Auto off) ................................................................................................................. 16
5.0 Using measure modes (lower display) ........................................................................................ 18
5.1Measuring volts ......................................................................................................................................... 18
5.2Measuring frequency ................................................................................................................................ 19
5.3Measuring mA ........................................................................................................................................... 20
5.4Measuring Temperature ........................................................................................................................... 21
5.4.1Using Thermocouples (TC) .......................................................................................................... 21
5.4.2Using Resistance-Temperature-Detectors (RTDs) ...................................................................... 22
5.5Measuring Pressure .................................................................................................................................. 25
5.5.1Zeroing with Absolute Pressure Modules (APM S, H and Mk.II) ................................................. 26
5.5.2Using the BARO Module (optional) .............................................................................................. 26
6.0 Using Source modes (Lower Display) ......................................................................................... 28
6.1Sourcing mA (internal loop power supply) ................................................................................................ 28
6.2mA Sink (external loop power supply) ...................................................................................................... 29
6.3Sourcing Voltage ....................................................................................................................................... 30
6.4Sourcing Frequency .................................................................................................................................. 31
6.5Sourcing a Pulse Train ............................................................................................................................. 31
6.6Sourcing mV ............................................................................................................................................. 32
6.7Sourcing Thermocouples .......................................................................................................................... 33
6.8Sourcing Ohms/RTDs ............................................................................................................................... 34
6.9Custom RTD ............................................................................................................................................. 35
6.10Using Auto Output functions ..................................................................................................................... 36
6.10.1Using the Step function ................................................................................................................ 36
6.10.2Using the Ramp function .............................................................................................................. 37
7.0 Using Isolated Measure Modes (Upper Display) ........................................................................ 39
7.1Measuring mA (external loop supply) ....................................................................................................... 39
7.2Measuring current with internal loop power .............................................................................................. 40
7.3Measuring Voltage .................................................................................................................................... 41
7.4Measuring Pressure .................................................................................................................................. 41
8.0Using the Upper and Lower Display for Calibration and Testing ............................................ 43
8.1Performing a Temperature Switch Test .................................................................................................... 43
8.2Performing a Pressure Switch Test .......................................................................................................... 45
8.3Testing an Input or Indicating Device ....................................................................................................... 47
8.4Calibrating an I/P Device .......................................................................................................................... 47
8.5Calibrating a Transmitter (Signal Converter) ............................................................................................ 49
8.6Calibrating a Pressure Transmitter (loop powered 4-20 mA) ................................................................... 50

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8.7Using Scaled Current or Voltage when testing or calibrating a T/I Transmitter ..................................... 52
8.8Using Percent Error when testing or calibrating a T/I Transmitter ............................................................ 5 3 
9.0 Maintenance ................................................................................................................................... 54
9.1Returning the calibrator to service ............................................................................................................ 54
9.2Replacing batteries ................................................................................................................................... 56
9.3Storing ....................................................................................................................................................... 57
9.4Cleaning .................................................................................................................................................... 57
10.0 Errors .............................................................................................................................................. 58
11.0Technical specifications ............................................................................................................... 59
12.0List of accessories ........................................................................................................................ 67

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1.0 Introduction
Congratulations on your new AMETEK JOFRA Advanced Signal Calibrator!
With the AMETEK JOFRA Advanced Signal Calibrator, you have chosen an extremely
effective instrument, which we are sure will perform according to your expectations.
This ASC-400 signal calibrator is a handheld, battery or DC adaptor powered instrument
that measures and sources electrical and physical parameters.
During the past several years, we have acquired extensive knowledge of industrial
signal calibration. This expertise is reflected in our products, which are all designed for
daily use in an industrial environment. Please note that we would be very interested in
hearing from you if you have any ideas or suggestions for changes to our products.
This reference manual applies to the following instrument:
 JOFRA ASC-400
The calibrator has the following features and functions:
 A dual colour display.
The upper display is used for the measurement of volts, current, pressure, %error,
scaling and switch test
The lower display can be used to measure and source volts, millivolts, current, pressure,
resistance, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), thermocouples, frequency, and
resistance, and to source pulse trains.
 A thermocouple (TC) input/output terminal with automatic and manual reference-junction
(cold junction) temperature compensation.
 An interactive and intuitive user interface
 USB interface for remote control
 Isolated read back for transmitter calibration.
 A BARO option turning any gauge measuring APM into an absolute measuring
device.
 Extended and comprehensive pressure measurement capabilities with JOFRA
advanced pressure modules (APM)
ISO-9001 certified
AMETEK Denmark A/S was ISO-9001 certified in September 1994 by Bureau Veritas
Certification Denmark.
CE-label
Your new signal calibrator bears the CE label and conforms to the
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive 2014/30/EU and RoHS
Recast (RoHS II) Directive 2011/65/EU*.
* ASC-140 from serial no. xxxxxx-00733

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Technical assistance
Please contact the dealer from whom you acquired the instrument if you require
technical assistance.
1.1 Warranty
This instrument is warranted against defects in workmanship, material and design for
two (2) years from date of delivery to the extent that AMETEK will, at its sole option,
repair or replace the instrument or any part thereof which is defective, provided,
however, that this warranty shall not apply to instruments subjected to tampering or,
abuse, or exposed to highly corrosive conditions.
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES WHETHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED AND AMETEK HEREBY DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,
INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR MERCHANTABILITY. AMETEK SHALL NOT BE LIABLE
FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT
LIMITED TO, ANY ANTICIPATED OR LOST PROFITS.
This warranty is voidable if the purchaser fails to follow any and all instructions,
warnings or cautions in the instrument’s User Manual.
If a manufacturing defect is found, AMETEK will replace or repair the instrument or
replace any defective part thereof without charge; however, AMETEK’s obligation
hereunder does not include the cost of transportation, which must be borne by the
customer. AMETEK assumes no responsibility for damage in transit, and any claims for
such damage should be presented to the carrier by the purchaser.
1.2 Receiving the Advanced Signal Calibrator
When you receive the instrument…
1) Unpack and check the signal calibrator and the accessories carefully.
2) Check the parts according to the list shown below.
If any of the parts are missing or damaged, please contact the dealer who sold you
the signal calibrator.
You should receive:
 1 ASC-400 Calibrator
 1 electronic Reference manual on USB memory stick
 2 sets of test leads and test clips (black and red)
 1 carrying soft bag
 1 USB cable
 6 x AA batteries
 1 Calibration certificate (International traceable)
When reordering, please specify the part numbers according to the list of accessories,
section 12.0

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1.3 Dimensioning drawing
55 mm96 mm
220 mm

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2.0 Safety instructions
Read this manual carefully before using the instrument!
Please follow the instructions and procedures described in this manual. They are
aimed at allowing you to make the best of your signal calibrator and avoid any
personal in
j
uries and/or dama
g
e to the instrument.
Disposal – WEEE Directive
The signal calibrator contains Electrical and Electronic circuits and must be properly
recycled or disposed of (in accordance with the WEEE Directive 2012/19/EU).
Warning
The signal calibrator is designed to calibrate and measure low voltage process signals.
To ensure the safety of the operator and the instrument, DO NOT connect the signal
calibrator to input voltages above 30 Volts.
To avoid possible electric shock or personal injury:
 Do not apply more than the rated voltage. See specifications for supported ranges.
 Follow all equipment safety procedures.
 Never touch the probe to a voltage source when the test leads are plugged into the
current terminals.
 Do not use the calibrator if it is damaged. Before you use the calibrator, inspect the
case. Look for cracks or missing plastic. Pay particular attention to the insulation
surrounding the connectors.
 Select the proper function and range for your measurement.
 Make sure the battery cover is closed and latched before you operate the calibrator.
 Remove test leads from the calibrator before you open the battery door.
 Inspect the test leads for damaged insulation or exposed metal. Check test leads
continuity. Replace damaged test leads before you use the calibrator.
 When using the probes, keep your fingers away from the probe contacts. Keep your
fingers behind the finger guards on the probes.
 Connect the common test lead before you connect the live test lead.
When you disconnect test leads, disconnect the live test lead first.
 Do not use the calibrator if it operates abnormally. Protection may be impaired. When
in doubt, have the calibrator serviced.
 Do not operate the calibrator around explosive gas, vapour, or dust.
 When using a pressure module, make sure the process pressure line is shut off
and depressurized before you connect it or disconnect it from the pressure module.
 Disconnect test leads before changing to another measure or source function.
 When servicing the calibrator, use only specified replacement parts.
 To avoid false readings, which could lead to possible electric shock or personal injury,
replace the battery as soon as the battery indicator appears.
 To avoid a violent release of pressure in a pressurized system, shut off the valve and
slowly bleed off the pressure before you attach the pressure module to the
pressure line.
 To avoid personal injury or damage to the calibrator, use only the specified
replacement parts and do not allow water into the case.

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Caution…
To avoid possible damage to the signal calibrator or to the equipment under
test:
 Disconnect the power and discharge all high-voltage capacitors before testing
resistance or continuity.
 Use the proper jacks, function, and range for your measurement or sourcing
application.
 If the message changes to "OL" the range limit is exceeded and the pressure source
must immediately be removed from the APM to prevent damage to the pressure
transducer inside.
 To avoid damaging the pressure module from overpressure, never apply pressure
above the rated maximum printed on the module.
 To avoid damaging the plastic lens and case, do not use solvents or abrasive
cleansers.
 When using the switch test function, make sure that no other equipment, such as
heavy loads or sources, is connected in the test loop.
Note…
The product liability only applies if the instrument is subject to a manufacturing
defect. This liability becomes void if the user fails to follow the maintenance
instructions described in this manual or uses unauthorized spare parts.

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3.0 Calibrator Interface
3.1 Input/Output Connections
Measure / Source
mA
Input terminals for
sourcing and
measuring current.
Measure / Source
V, Ω/RTD, Hz
Input terminals for
sourcing and
measuring voltage,
frequency, pulse
train, resistance
and RTDs.
Measure / V mA
Input terminals for
measuring ,
switch test,
current, voltage
and su
pp
l
y
in
g
Measure Ω/RTD,
4w, 3/4w
Input terminals for
performing RTD
measurements
with 3-wire or 4-
wire setups.
Pressure module
connector (APM)
Connects calibrator to a
pressure module for
pressure measurements.
TC mV input / output
Terminal for measuring or
simulating thermocouples and mV.
Accepts miniature polarized
thermocouple plugs with flat in-line
blades spaced 7.9 mm (0.312 in)
center to center.
USB connection
Connects calibrator
to a PC for remote
control.
Charger Connector
Connects to optional
power supply /
battery charger.

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3.2 Keypad - Functions
3.3 Main display - Functions
Real Time
Clock display
Numeric Keypad
Allows user to enter
Numeric values in both
upper and lower display.
Function keys
F1, F2, F3, F4
To operate the menu bar
at the bottom of the
calibrator display, use the
F-keys.
Power key/
Backlight key
Turn the calibrator on and
off. Press the button for
five seconds to turn it off.
Adjust the backlight
intensity.
Arrow Keys
Have different functions
depending on the mode of
operation. In navigation
mode, they move the
cursor in the desired
direction.
In edit mode, they roll in
the list of options or if
entering a number, the
arrow left and arrow right
move the cursor one
character in the desired
direction.
Zero key
Zero Pressure Module
reading.
Back key
Cancel a selection / edit or
return to previous menu.
Action key / Enter key
Action function: Open and
close edit fields or a menu
button. The action key also
accepts the selected
option or entered value.
Enter function: Accept
selected options or
entered values. When a
value is entered with the
Enter Key the cursor
selects the next value field
in the list.
Configuration key
Opens and closes
configuration mode.
Upper display
The upper display is used
for measuring DC voltage,
DC current with and
without loop power,
pressure, percent, error,
scaled value, switch test.
Lower display
The lower display can be
used for both measuring
and sourcing.
Horizontal menu bar
The menu bar is used to
setup both the upper and
the lower display to perform
the desired function. The
function keys (F1, F2, F3
and F4) are used to
navigate through all the
levels and choices of the
menu bar.
Date display
Battery icon.
Remaining power and
attached power adapter

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3.4 Upper display (Read-back display) - Functions
3.5 Lower display (Primary display) – Functions
Primary Parameters
Determine what parameter is
going to be measured.
The available options for the
upper display are: CURRENT,
VOLTAGE, SWITCH TEST,
PRESSURE and LEAK TEST.
Secondary upper display
Shows where in the preset
span the measured value
falls. Fixed for mA at 4 (0%)
and 20 (100%). Also shows
mA value for percent error,
mA or Volts value for scaling
and leak rate for pressure.
Units
Shows what unit the
measurement value is in.
Available options are : mA,
SCALING, %ERROR, VOLT
and PRESSURE UNITS.
Additional parameters
Selection and selection of
parameters relevant to the
choice of primary parameter
Primary Parameters
Determine what parameter is
going to be measured or
sourced.
The available options for the
upper display are: CURRENT,
VOLTAGE, THERMO-
COUPLE, RTD, OHMS,
FREQUENCY, PULSE,
PRESSURE and BARO
(
o
p
t.
)
Native Value
0 to 100 % in mA out mode
and leak rate for pressure.
Units
Shows what unit the
measurement or source
value is in.
Numeric display
Displays the numeric values
of the signal being
measured, or sourced.
An “OL” reading indicates an
out of range or overload
condition.
Input / Output
Switches / indicates lower
display input mode (read),
and output mode (source).
Numeric display
Displays the numeric values
of the signal being
measured.
An “OL” reading indicates an
out of range or overload
condition.
Backlight Intensity
Indicates Low, Medium or
High intensity on backlight
Additional parameters
Selection and selection of
parameters relevant to the
choice of primary parameter.

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4.0 Operating the calibrator
Warning
Please inspect the Safet
y
Instructions in section 2.0 before usin
g
the instrument.
Caution…
Please inspect the Safety Instructions in section 2.0 before using the instrument.
Connect USB cable and APM before switching on the instrument, or before applying
DC power.
4.1 Basic operation (Setup)
1. Select mode for upper and lower display (RED markers).
2. Select the related options and functions for the selected modes (BLUE markers)
Note…
the light blue fields; they indicate a parameter / function that can be selected
or altered in edit mode. This works like a build in user manual, indicating the
changeable parameters for the selected mode at all times.

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4.2 The principle of navigating through a Setup
ACTION SCREEN DISPLAYED
1. Press to access edit mode.
2. Use the (ARROW) keys to move between the
parameter fields.
3. Press to access the various Parameter lists to
choose from.
4. Start by selecting upper or lower display.
5. Use the (ARROW) keys to move between the
parameter fields and make more changes…
6. Press to accept the selections and leave the
edit mode.
7. Use the numeric keys to enter an output value (if output
if chosen).
8. Press to accept the value.
9. Or use the (ARROW) keys to enter “fine adjust”
mode.
Move the value-frame to the right or left using the
or keys. Modify the digits using the or keys.

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4.3 System Settings
The System Settings setup can be accessed at any stage of operation:
1. Press to display the Horizontal menu bar.
2. Press (System) to access the System Settings.
3. Use the (ARROW) keys to move between the setting fields.
4. Press to open a setting field for editing.
5. Use the numeric keys to enter the desired value and press to accept the value.
When entering the HART Resistor ON/OFF field and Date field horizontal lists
appear.
6. Use the and keys to scroll in the lists and select from the lists by pressing .
7. Press either or to exit the System Settings.
F3

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8. The calibrator resumes normal operation after a few seconds. It will return to the
setup last used.
4.3.1 Power Saver (Auto off)
The ASC-400 calibrator automatically turns off 5 to 60 minutes after the last keystroke.
To reduce or increase this time or to disable this feature, do as follows:
1. In the System Settings setup enter the “Auto Off” setting field and press to
access the Auto Off Minutes list.
2. The list displays the turn-off time in minutes.
Off disables the power saver and the calibrator will be permanently off.
3. Select the turn-off time by pressing .
4. Press to exit the System Settings.

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F4
4.4 System Information
The System Information can be accessed at any stage of operation:
1. Press to display the Horizontal menu bar.
2. Press (Info) to access the System Information.

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5.0 Using measure modes (lower display)
5.1 Measuring volts
The electrical parameter volts can be measured using the lower display.
To make the desired measurements, follow the principle of navigating through the
functions described in the guidelines in section 4.2 and proceed as follows:
1. Select “Voltage” from the Lower Mode list.
2. Select the desired Range from the Range list.
3. Select the desired Test Mode (in) from the Test Mode list.
4. Accept the selections and leave the edit mode.
5. Connect the leads, as shown in Figure 1.
Figure 1
Measuring Volts

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5.2 Measuring frequency
The electrical parameter frequency can be measured using the lower display.
To make the desired measurements, follow the principle of navigating through the
functions described in the guidelines in section 4.2 and proceed as follows:
1. Enter edit mode.
2. Select “Frequency” from the Lower Mode list.
3. Select the desired Test Mode (In) from the Test Mode list.
4. Enter the desired trigger level (Trig. V) value using either the ARROW keys or the
numeric keys.
5. Select the desired unit from the Units list.
6. Accept the selections and leave edit mode.
7. Connect the leads, as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2
Measuring Frequency